Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. It affects your finances, your lifestyle and your future plans. After moving four times since relocating to this area, we have picked up a huge amount of insight into what really matters when viewing properties and planning ahead.
In our video, we talked openly about our journey, what went well, what we would do differently and the lessons you can use to make smarter decisions. Whether you are a first time buyer, planning to upsize, or simply unsure about your next step, we hope our experience gives you clarity and confidence.
Why We Moved So Many Times
When we bought our first home together in Reigate, we played it safe. We focused heavily on budget, commute costs and keeping things comfortable. There is nothing wrong with that approach, but looking back, we realise we could have been a little braver.
Each move allowed us to
- Step into a larger home
- Enjoy bigger gardens
- Renovate and add value
- Build more equity
The strategy worked for us, but it also taught us how important it is to think about your stage of life, long term plans and whether moving again in a few years will cost more than stretching slightly now.
First Time Buyer Considerations That Really Matter
When we speak to first time buyers, we often see people thinking only about what they need today. A small flat or a two bedroom property might feel perfect right now, but it is important to consider the future.
Ask yourself:
- Are you planning a family
- Will you need a home office
- Do you want outdoor space
- Will school catchment areas matter later
Moving again sooner than planned comes with costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, surveys and estate agent fees. This is why it can be worth asking if you can stretch slightly now to avoid another move in two or three years. If you cannot, that is still completely fine. The key is to make your decision intentionally and with the long term in mind.
Freehold or Leasehold What You Need to Know
One of the most important decisions buyers overlook is the difference between freehold and leasehold.
Freehold often gives you
- More freedom
- No ground rent
- No service charges
- Fewer restrictions
- Better long term appeal to buyers
Leasehold can still be a great option, especially on a tighter budget, but it often involves
- Rules on pets, flooring and alterations
- Management fees
- Lease length considerations
Sometimes moving slightly outside your preferred area gives you access to a freehold home for the same price as a leasehold flat. This can make a big long term difference.
Buying a Home That Needs Work What We Learned From Renovating
We have renovated several homes over the years. Although we love the transformation, there are a few truths we learned quickly.
- Renovation almost always costs more than expected
- It usually takes longer than planned
Before committing to a property that needs work, always get at least three or four builder quotes. Understand the disruption, especially if you have children or work from home. There is huge potential in adding value, but it needs to be balanced with realistic expectations.
Sometimes a new build offers more value than people expect, and for us, it was a refreshing change to move into a home where everything was already done.
Essential Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property
Buyers often fall in love with a home emotionally before asking the important questions. These questions can tell you a lot about whether the property is right for you long term.
Always ask
- Why are the sellers moving
- Are they buying onward
- How long has the property been on the market
- What are the running costs
- Has the property had major work
- Is the construction type mortgage friendly
- What is the local area like at different times of day
These simple questions help you make a more informed and confident decision.
Why Second Viewings Matter
Never feel rushed by an estate agent. A second viewing is essential, and ideally at a different time of day.
During your second visit, make sure to
- Test taps and flush toilets
- Inspect the boiler
- Look for signs of damp
- Check how sunlight falls in the garden
- Walk the street in the evening
You are not only buying the home. You are also buying the street, the neighbours and the environment around you.
Using Pros and Cons to Make the Right Decision
Every home, at every budget, involves compromise. The key is understanding what you are willing to compromise on.
Create
- A pros list
- A cons list
- A deal breaker list
This gives you a clear picture of what truly matters and helps you choose a home that works for you not just today but in the years to come.
Final Thoughts
After moving multiple times, renovating several homes and supporting many clients on their buying journey, we truly believe the following.
A perfect home does not exist.
The right home absolutely does.
And you find it through research, preparation and taking your time.
If you are a first time buyer or planning your next move, we would love to help you look at the bigger picture and understand what is right for your situation.
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Watch the full video on our YouTube channel and please subscribe to follow the full series...
Home Made By The Lathams
In this new video series, Zita and Jarrod Latham invite you inside their Surrey home in the UK, to share their insights, experiences and knowledge surrounding the home buying process and mortgages.
Zita, originally from Hungary, and Jarrod, from New Zealand, have a great deal of personal experience in relocating, and buying property in the UK.
Your mortgage and house buying process shouldn’t be stressful. This friendly and conversational style series will help you feel calm and informed about many areas of the mortgage and home buying process.
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